Oxidation state of in `Fe_(3)O_(4)` is

Options

A. `3/2`
B. `4/5`
C. `5/4`
D. `8/3`

Explanation

To find the oxidation state of iron (Fe) in the compound Fe₃O₄, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Assign Variables
Let the oxidation state of iron (Fe) be represented as \( X \).

### Step 2: Write the Equation
In Fe₃O₄, there are 3 iron atoms and 4 oxygen atoms. The oxidation state of oxygen is typically -2. Therefore, we can set up the equation based on the overall charge of the compound, which is neutral (0):

\[ 3X + 4(-2) = 0 \]

### Step 3: Simplify the Equation
Now, simplify the equation:

\[ 3X - 8 = 0 \]

### Step 4: Solve for X
To find \( X \), we can rearrange the equation:

\[ 3X = 8 \]

Now, divide both sides by 3:

\[ X = \frac{8}{3} \]

### Conclusion
The oxidation state of iron in Fe₃O₄ is \( \frac{8}{3} \) or approximately +2.67.

### Additional Information
It's important to note that Fe₃O₄ is a mixed oxide of iron, containing both Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions. This means that in Fe₃O₄, iron exists in both +2 and +3 oxidation states.

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